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AI004

AI Magic Lab

A rigorous course structure integrating four major sections: AI Fundamentals, Large Model Generation (GenAI & LLM), Agents and Evolutionary Computation (highlighted as a PolyU Feature), and Ethics. The course logic progresses sequentially through Perception & Data (L1-3), Cognition & Generation (L4-6), Agents & Evolution (L7-9), and concludes with Ethics & Future (L10).

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Course Overview

📚 Content Summary

The "AI Magic Lab" is a rigorous, integrated course designed to provide a deep, sequential understanding of modern Artificial Intelligence. The curriculum is structured into four progressive modules: foundational concepts (Perception & Data), advanced generative capabilities (Cognition & Generation via LLMs and Diffusion Models), autonomous systems (Agents & Evolutionary Computation), and ethical governance (Ethics & Future). Students will move from understanding the raw numerical representation of data to mastering complex system design, culminating in a comprehensive view of responsible AI creation and deployment.

This course provides a rigorous, integrated understanding of modern AI, covering core data fundamentals, Large Language Model (LLM) generation techniques, the architecture of autonomous Agents, and the critical ethical considerations necessary for responsible deployment.

🎯 Learning Objectives

  1. Master the fundamentals of AI perception, data representation (Tensors), and foundational supervised learning tasks like Classification.
  2. Understand and control Large Language Models (LLMs) and Generative AI by applying concepts of sequence prediction, the Attention Mechanism, and advanced Prompt Engineering techniques.
  3. Design and analyze Intelligent Agents, integrating the Perception-Decision-Action loop with advanced, population-based optimization methods such as Evolutionary Computation.
  4. Differentiate between Generative and Discriminative AI and explain the mechanical process of Diffusion Models for Text-to-Image generation.
  5. Evaluate the ethical challenges inherent in contemporary AI (data bias, model hallucination, deepfakes) and propose strategies for responsible Human-AI Symbiosis.

🔹 Lesson 1: The Machine's Digital Eye

Overview: This foundational lesson explores machine perception, starting with the Pixel and the RGB Color Model. Students will learn how raw visual data is quantified and how Computer Vision (CV) employs Feature Extraction. The core mechanism introduced is Convolution, a digital filter used to detect low-level features like edges, transforming visible images into structured numerical matrices for subsequent AI processing. Learning Outcomes:

  • Define the roles of Pixels, RGB values, and Resolution in the construction of a digital image.
  • Explain the necessity of Computer Vision (CV) and Feature Extraction in machine perception.
  • Conceptualize convolution as a 'digital filter' used to detect low-level features like edges and corners.
  • Understand that all visual data is ultimately represented as structured numerical matrices for AI processing.

🔹 Lesson 2: Data Building Blocks (Tensors)

Overview: This essential lesson transitions from raw perception to structured mathematical representation. We categorize non-structured data (text, audio, images) and introduce the Tensor—the multi-dimensional container serving as the universal language for all AI computation. We visualize how various data types are represented as Tensors and define the Input/Output (I/O) relationship. Crucially, the process of Preprocessing (cleaning, scaling, and normalization) is covered as a prerequisite for effective model training. Learning Outcomes:

  • Define the primary characteristics of non-structured data (text, images, audio) and explain why conversion is necessary.
  • Differentiate mathematically between a vector (1D) and a tensor (multi-dimensional container).
  • Explain how Tensors serve as the universal input/output structure for all neural networks.
  • Outline the critical steps and goals of data preprocessing (cleaning and normalization) before model training.

🔹 Lesson 3: The Classification Master

Overview: Focusing on Supervised Learning, this lesson explains how AI uses structured, labeled data to perform complex tasks. The core task is Classification, where the model learns to sort inputs by drawing a metaphorical Decision Boundary. We assess model effectiveness using Accuracy and explore the major pitfall of Overfitting, where the model fails to generalize its knowledge to new, unseen data. Learning Outcomes:

  • Define Supervised Learning and identify the roles of Training Data and Labels.
  • Explain the goal of Classification and visualize how a model establishes a Decision Boundary.
  • Calculate or interpret model performance using the metric of Accuracy.
  • Analyze and describe the concept of Overfitting and its negative impact on AI generalization.

🔹 Lesson 4: Language Prediction and Attention

Overview: This lesson shifts focus to dynamic sequence generation, explaining the core mechanism of Large Language Models (LLMs). We define Tokens and the limitations of the Context Window (LLM’s short-term memory). The process relies on Sequence Prediction (calculating the probability of the next token) and the Attention Mechanism, which dynamically weighs token importance. Finally, students learn how the Temperature parameter controls the randomness and creativity of the generated output. Learning Outcomes:

  • Define a token and explain how text is converted into sequences for LLM processing.
  • Illustrate the function of the Context Window and explain its limitation as the AI's short-term memory.
  • Describe the role of the Attention Mechanism in helping the LLM focus on relevant input information during prediction.
  • Explain sequence prediction as a probabilistic process and analyze how the Temperature parameter controls the creativity and randomness of the model's output.

🔹 Lesson 5: Prompt Engineering Magic

Overview: Building on the technical foundation of LLM prediction, this lesson focuses on actively controlling output using structured input—treating language as high-level code. We establish the core prompt architecture (Instructions, Context, Format). Techniques covered include Role-Setting (Persona), Few-Shot Learning (providing examples), and Chain of Thought (CoT), which enhances logical accuracy by requiring step-by-step reasoning. Learning Outcomes:

  • Define prompt engineering and recognize natural language as a new programming paradigm for guiding LLMs.
  • Implement Role-Setting (Persona) and Few-Shot Learning techniques to modify the LLM's tone, focus, and adherence to specific output formats.
  • Apply the Chain of Thought (CoT) technique to solve multi-step reasoning problems and enhance logical accuracy.
  • Practice iterative prompt optimization to systematically refine and constrain generated output based on desired outcomes.

🔹 Lesson 6: Generative Art and Diffusion

Overview: This lesson moves from textual input control (L5) to the mechanical process of creation. We distinguish Generative AI from Discriminative AI. The core focus is the Diffusion Model, where every image begins as random Noise. The process involves iterative de-noising over hundreds of steps, controlled precisely by the detailed prompt to ensure Text-to-Image Alignment within the Latent Space. Learning Outcomes:

  • Differentiate between Generative and Discriminative AI models.
  • Explain the core principle of Diffusion Models as an iterative de-noising process starting from random noise.
  • Describe the role of the text prompt in achieving Text-to-Image Alignment.
  • Identify key applications of diffusion models, such as style transfer.

🔹 Lesson 7: The Agent’s Core Loop

Overview: This lesson introduces the Intelligent Agent—an autonomous system defined by the closed-loop Perception-Decision-Action (PDA) Loop. We break down the components: Perception (via Sensors), Decision (the internal brain), and Action (via Actuators). A critical expansion is Tool Use, where the agent calls external utilities (like search engines) to extend its capabilities beyond its core model. Learning Outcomes:

  • Define an intelligent agent and differentiate it from static Generative AI models based on its ability to interact with an environment.
  • Diagram and explain the role of each component within the Perception-Decision-Action (PDA) closed loop.
  • Identify and provide examples of sensors (perception) and actuators (action) in both real-world and purely digital agents.
  • Understand the function and significance of 'Tool Use' in extending an agent's effective capabilities beyond its core model.

🔹 Lesson 8: The Power of Evolution (PolyU Feature)

Overview: This lesson introduces Evolutionary Computation (EC), an optimization paradigm inspired by natural selection, used to find optimal agent decisions. We define the Genotype (coded instructions) and Phenotype (expressed behavior). The deep dive focuses on the three pillars: Mutation (random change), Crossover (combining traits), and Selection, which is guided by the Fitness Function—the objective ruler measuring solution quality across generations. Learning Outcomes:

  • Define Evolutionary Computation (EC) and explain its inspiration from biological natural selection.
  • Differentiate between the Genotype (parameters) and Phenotype (behavior) of an evolving solution.
  • Illustrate the functions of Mutation, Crossover, and Fitness-based Selection within an Evolutionary Algorithm.
  • Describe the iterative cycle by which EC optimizes a population of solutions across generations.
  • Identify optimization problems where Evolutionary Algorithms offer a viable advantage over traditional methods.

🔹 Lesson 9: Multi-Agent Collaboration and Swarms

Overview: Transitioning from individual optimization (L8), this lesson explores the dynamics of collective intelligence. We analyze scenarios requiring collaboration and competition, focusing on Swarm Intelligence. Students will learn the principle of Emergence, where sophisticated global behaviors (like ant trails) arise purely from simple, local communication protocols, emphasizing the complexity that arises when scaling autonomous systems. Learning Outcomes:

  • Differentiate the goals and mechanisms of single-agent systems versus Multi-Agent Systems (MAS).
  • Explain the role of communication in coordinating collaboration and competition among multiple agents.
  • Define 'Emergence' and identify real-world and computational examples of Swarm Intelligence (e.g., ant colony optimization).
  • Analyze how simple, localized rules can generate complex, global group behaviors.
  • Discuss why the complexity of multi-agent systems necessitates careful ethical consideration and control.

🔹 Lesson 10: Ethics, Bias, and Human-AI Symbiosis

Overview: This final lesson addresses the necessary ethical accountability required for advanced autonomy. We examine systemic flaws like Data Bias and the inherent limitations of models, specifically Model Hallucination. The risks of advanced generation (Deepfakes) are explored, leading to the introduction of solutions: the essential role of Human-in-the-Loop (HITL) oversight. The course concludes by defining the desired future state: Human-AI Symbiosis, where AI acts as a powerful Co-Pilot, augmenting human capability. Learning Outcomes:

  • Identify the sources and consequences of data bias and model hallucination in contemporary AI systems.
  • Analyze the security risks posed by deepfake technology and the importance of content verification.
  • Explain the concept and necessity of Human-in-the-Loop (HITL) oversight in autonomous decision-making processes.
  • Evaluate the potential of Human-AI Symbiosis, viewing AI primarily as a 'Co-Pilot' tool rather than a replacement.
  • Formulate an initial perspective on the ethical responsibilities of future AI creators.